Villagers in Keonjhar Block National Highway Demanding Hailstorm Relief
Hundreds of villagers from the Patna block in Keonjhar district, Odisha, took to the streets on Tuesday, burning tyres and obstructing traffic on National Highway 220. The protest erupted as residents demanded urgent rehabilitation and compensation for losses sustained during a severe hailstorm that struck the area earlier in the day.
Administrative Inaction Sparks Widespread Anger
According to local reports, the demonstration was triggered by the alleged failure of the local administration to provide adequate shelter and assistance following the hailstorm. The violent weather event caused significant damage to homes, with many residents rendered homeless and forced to seek refuge in neighboring houses. Protesters gathered at key locations including Dakshinaposhi, Malli Poshi, Swam Hanuman Chack on NH-220, and the Patna Bypass, effectively halting vehicle movement on the crucial Dhenkikote-Patna-Karanjia road.
Extensive Damage Across Multiple Panchayats
The hailstorm impacted villages across six panchayats within the Patna block, destroying asbestos roofs, tiles, and traditional clay houses. In a related incident, sources indicated that Saharpada block experienced a similar hailstorm on Wednesday morning, resulting in minor injuries to several individuals. Villagers described spending a sleepless night due to waterlogging inside their damaged homes and the absence of proper roofing, exacerbating their distress.
Officials Intervene to Resolve the Crisis
In response to the escalating situation, a team of officials including Patna Block Development Officer Manas Dandpat, Tehsildar Aswini Nayak, and IIC Kiran Prasad Sahu visited the protest sites to mediate with the aggrieved residents. The protesters had earlier gheraoed the Patna tehsil office, pressing for immediate action on their demands. After discussions, the blockade was lifted, with IIC Kiran Prasad Sahu confirming that the authorities listened to the people's problems and demands, leading to a temporary resolution.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in disaster response and rehabilitation in rural Odisha, with villagers taking drastic measures to draw attention to their plight amid natural calamities.
